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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Why is Angela upset with Frank when he returns from the pub at the beginning of Chapter 17?

2. What does Malachy bring Angela as a gift for Christmas in Chapter 12?

3. Where is the priest that Frank meets on the boat from?

4. How does Frank spend his first wages in Chapter 15?

5. Why is Frank thrown out of the library?

Short Essay Questions

1. Malachy returns home temporarily to care for the children, but his visit is short-lived. How do you feel about this? Should he have stayed longer? What does his visit tell you about the dynamics of the family?

2. Why is Frank hesitant to tell Angela about his job for Mrs. Finucane in Chapter 16?

3. Describe the circumstances under which Angela and her family are evicted.

4. Consider the difference in attitude towards the children that Aunt Agnes and Pa Keating have in Chapter 10. Why do you think they are so different? How do they differ?

5. Why does Frank regret not taking the postal exam in Chapter 18?

6. Why is Frank's job with John Hannon in Chapter 11 a mixed blessing?

7. Describe Frank's experience delivering telegrams to the Carmody house in Chapter 15. How is he feeling? Was this an expected occurrence?

8. In Chapter 15, Agnes buys Frank new clothes. Why is this so surprising? Why do you think she does it?

9. Why does Frank find relief when he visits the Franciscan priest in Chapter 17?

10. In Chapter 13, the reader sees just how strained the relationship between Frank and Laman has become. Why do you think their relationship is the way it is?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Consider the role alcohol plays in "Angela's Ashes." Alcohol serves as almost another character; it affects the family, society and well-being of everyone in the memoir. Discuss the role of alcohol, "pub-culture," and how alcohol is seen by both the McCourt family and society as a whole.

Essay Topic 2

Discuss the relationship dynamic between Angela and Malachy. What plays the most important part in the demise of their relationship?

Essay Topic 3

Discuss the role of the Catholic church in the book, both on Frank and his family and on society as a whole.

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